ADDIS ABABA-Ethiopia is gearing up to launch cocoa production, leveraging its favorable ecosystem after two decades of research on cacao, as disclosed by the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR).
AbukiyaGetu, Cocoa and Spice Research Coordinator at Tepi Agriculture Center under EIAR, told the Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA) that the center has been conducting extensive research for over two decades to introduce cacao to Ethiopia on a significant scale. According to him, producing a crop not previously grown in the country requires a careful and lengthy research process. In this regard, the research on cacao has been successful, leading to the registration of a suitable species three years ago.
Abukiya highlighted that cacao, classified as a permanent crop, starts yielding in three years, similar to coffee, and is resistant to high temperatures and drought. Regions such as South West Ethiopia, Gambela, parts of WellegaMugi, Benishangul-Gumuz, and Pawihave been identified as suitable for cocoa production. Additional research is underway to identify other favorable areas in the country for growing cacao.
“The research conducted under Tepi Agriculture Center has yielded significant results, enabling the distribution of 10,000 cacao seeds and continuous awareness efforts on fieldwork and care,” he added.
The institute is also collaborating with Nib Chocolate Factory, which previously imported semi-processed cacao to produce chocolate and related products. Now, with local production, the factory is processing cacao domestically and exporting the finished product. For the first time, they have also promoted dark chocolate to various stakeholders, including other factories and experienced players in the field.
The coordinator emphasized that market demand for cocoa is increasing as efforts continue to enhance the market linkage and bring greater economic benefits from the crop. He recalled that countries like those in West Africa and Latin America have become
BY MESERET BEHAILU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 31 AUGUST 2024
